Sorbent compositions and methods of manufacture for use in concentrating lithium from brines

Abstract

Compositions and methods of preparing sorbent compositions (SCs) and protonated sorbent compositions (PSCs) for use in concentrating lithium from native brines are described. In particular, SCs of the general formula Li 1.3-1.6 Mn 1.6-1.7 O 4 , methods of preparing the SCs and PSCs that have improved properties for lithium extraction and concentration over single and multiple cycles are described.

1 ) A sorbent composition (SC) of the formula Li 1.3-1.6 Mn 1.6-1.7 O 4  having a crystal structure enabling a reversable exchange of hydrogen and lithium ions within the composition, the sorbent composition effective for selectively concentrating lithium from a lithium brine via an ion exchange process, the crystal structure having a majority of ion exchange sites in relation to redox sites. 
     
     
         2 ) The sorbent composition of  claim 1  wherein the crystal structure has a ratio of ion exchange sites to redox sites greater than 2:1. 
     
     
         3 ) The sorbent composition of  claim 1  wherein the crystal structure has a ratio of ion exchange sites to redox sites greater than 5:1. 
     
     
         4 ) The sorbent composition of  claim 1  wherein the crystal structure has a ratio of ion exchange sites to redox sites greater than 15:1. 
     
     
         5 )- 48 ) (canceled)